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5 things on my Fredericton to-do list this summer

I recently wrote a piece for Fredericton Tourism’s new website, and the research process reminded me just how many things our family has still to explore in this beautiful city.

Here are the top five things on my to-do list for Summer 2016:

Hyla Park Frog Walk

Because, come on, who doesn’t like frogs? I’m pretty sure my 5-year-old will think this is awesome, and Hyla Park has the distinction of being the first amphibian park in Canada – it was created to protect the gray tree frog (Hyla versicolor). They offer free frog walks at 6pm Wednesdays during the summer, reservations are recommended.

Beaver Ponds at Mactaquac Provincial Park

I find beavers highly entertaining. There’s something about the giant front teeth and flat tail that makes them an inherently funny animal. Mactaquac Provincial Park is home to (among other things) a beaver pond, so that’s on our to-do list this year! No guarantee of seeing an actual beaver at the beaver ponds, I suppose, but from what I hear it’s also a great spot for seeing frogs, ducks and other small animals.

Odell Park

I’ve been to Odell Park, but only briefly. Being from Halifax (home to Point Pleasant Park), urban forests are something I treasure, and I look forward to getting to know Odell Park. I understand that the 400 acres are traversed by trails (for runners, hikers, or cyclists), and include a duck pond, deer pen, botanical garden and a playground as well.

Barracks Fine Craft Shops

Now I really have no excuse for not having been into the shops in the Barracks. I’m often downtown, but somehow just haven’t managed to stop in yet… and that will change this summer! The shops feature the works of local artists, and I understand some even craft their works on site.

King’s Landing

We’ve visited Kings Landing, for their annual sugar bush event, but despite the best of intentions haven’t gotten back during the summer to visit this park recreating an 1800s settlement. They have all sorts of animals, lots of opportunities to get hands-on (butter-making, candle-making, and spinning wool are a few popular options), and a pub.

That’s my top five list for Fredericton this summer! What’s on yours?

Thanks to Fredericton Tourism for the photos! Please contact them for permission for reuse.